Helen B. Barak
Helen B. Barak, 93, was born in Ennis, Texas to Frances & Jerry Matous, on August 31, 1929. She passed on Sunday, March 12, 2023 with all her children at her side. Visitation was held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, March 16, 2023, at Boze Mitchell McKibbin Funeral Home in Ennis, with recitation of the Holy Rosary commenced at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial was held 10 a.m. on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Saint John Nepomucene Catholic Church with Father John Dick as Celebrant. Interment followed at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Ennis, under the direction of Boze Mitchell McKibbin Funeral Home. Pallbearers were: Scott Barak, Christopher Barak, Randy Barak, Philip Barak, Brian Zhanel, David Zhanel, Eric Jessup, Joey Laznovsky and Johnny “Joe” Laznovsky.
Helen had attended Saint John School and graduated at the age of 16. Helen was one of ten children, growing up on a farm. Daily she did her chores and worked in the fields with her brothers.
In 1951, Helen met and Married the Love of her life Joseph Barak. After a short six month courtship they were married on June 18, 1951. They had a traditional Czech wedding with a meal and Polka dancing. They made their home in Bryan, Mesquite and finally settled here in Ennis.
Helen and Joe were members of Saint John Nepomucene Catholic Church. Helen served as President of the Altar Society for many years. She was very strong in her faith and loved praying several rosaries daily. Catholic Education was very important to her from grade school to High school where all her children attended. Helen took pride in providing a loving and caring home for her husband and children. She loved gardening and canned countless jars of vegetables and jellies. She was an excellent cook and baker. Helen loved to read especially Louis L’Amour and Zane Grey books. Often you could find her doing ceramics, knitting, crocheting, or doing a jigsaw puzzle with her husband Joe. During deer season she would be off with Joe hunting. Helen was happiest when she was with Joe. They loved picking whatever berry was in season, in which was made into jelly preserves later. Helen also worked at Sears as a Secretary before marrying. She also sold Sarah Coventry Jewelry and Stanley Home Products.
Helen and Joe had seven children: Dianne, Barbara and husband Steve, Joe Jr. and wife Billie, Susie, Alan & wife Marita, Patricia, and Jim & wife Bobbie. They have 23 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.
Helen is preceded in death by her husband of 71 years – Joe, Daughters: Susie, Patricia, Parents Jerry & Frances Matous sister Frances Novotny and husband Jerry, brother Jerry Matous & wife Marilyn, John Matous & wife Jenny and sister-inlaws Helen Matous and Barbara Matous.
Helen is survived by her brothers George Matous and Joe Matous, Walter Matous & wife Margaret, Bobby Matous & wife Dian, sisters JoAnn Baw and Margaret “Peggy” Marroquin & husband Luis.
Helen was a very loving and caring soul and will be greatly missed.
Arrangements were under the direction of Boze Mitchell McKibbin Funeral Home in Ennis.
